BALK, T. John
Max Planck Institute for Metals Research
Stuttgart - Germany

BUEHLER, Markus J.
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena - USA
mbuehler@caltech.edu

DAUSKARDT, Reinhold H.
Stanford University
Stanford - USA

GAO, Huajian
Max Planck Institute for Metals Research
Stuttgart - Germany

HARTMAIER, Alexander
Max Planck Institute for Metals Research
Stuttgart - Germany

Abstract
This minisymposium focuses on different aspects of mechanical properties of thin films and features special sessions on experimental techniques, computational modeling with a focus on atomistic and multiscale simulations as well as theoretical methods. The research presented in this symposium encompasses deformation mechanisms, failure and reliability of thin films as well as synthesis techniques. We particularly welcome contributions of joint experimental-modeling activities and research focusing on new materials and new deformation mechanisms that advance the understanding of mechanical behavior of materials under confinement.

Some areas of particular interest are:
Theoretical and experimental studies of deformation mechanisms in thin films, with a particular focus on small-scale plasticity, novel deformation mechanisms in nanostructured materials (e.g. diffusional creep), as well as interaction of dislocations, grain boundaries and triple junctions
Experimental techniques to investigate the mechanical behavior of thin films, such as in situ TEM microscopy and X-ray microdiffraction
Thin film synthesis techniques and evolution of microstructure and stress during film growth
Reliability of thin films, with a focus on fracture and fatigue, as well as film delamination and debonding
Development of new materials, their application and characterization (e.g. shape memory thin films)
Modeling strategies for small-scale materials (atomistic and multiscale simulations, mesoscopic simulations, continuum modeling) and coupling of different length- and time scales as well as the development of methods of linking theoretical and numerical methods to experimental techniques and results